Navigating a Hospital Stay After a T1D Diagnosis
Hearing the words “Your child has Type 1 diabetes” can be overwhelming, whether your baby, child or teenager has just been diagnosed. The hospital stay that follows is often a whirlwind of emotions, medical information and learning how to care for your child in a completely new way. Every diagnosis journey is different- some children are diagnosed after a gradual onset of symptoms, while others arrive at the hospital in diabetic keto-acidosis (DKA), a serious and life-threatening condition. We understand that these different journeys can have a huge affect on your hospital stay and how you process your child’s diagnosis.
Your hospital stay is a crucial time to learn, adjust and begin to come to terms with the T1D diagnosis. Here are some tips from those who have been in your shoes to help you navigate this challenging time.
Take It One Step as a Time
The first few days after a diagnosis can feel like information overload. You’ll be learning about insulin, blood sugar levels, carb counting and more. It’s okay if it feels overwhelming at first- no one expects you to become an expert overnight. Try to focus on one thing at a time and ask your medical team to repeat or clarify anything you don’t understand.
Ask Questions- As Many as You Need
The doctors, nurses, dietitians, counsellors and diabetes educators are there to help. Write down your questions or keep a notes app handy on your phone. Some helpful questions may include:
-How do I administer insulin injections?
-What should I do if my child has low or high blood sugar?
-How do I count carbohydrates?
-What supplies will I need at home?
If possible, have a second caregiver (partner, relative or friend) with you to help absorb information and support you.
Recognise That Emotions Will Be High
A Type 1 diabetes diagnosis is life changing, and its normal to feel a mix of emotions- shock, fear, sadness or even guilt. If your child is a baby or toddler, you may grieve for the carefree infancy you imagined. If your child is older, they may feel scared, confused or even angry. Teenagers may struggle with the loss of independence or worry about how diabetes will impact their social life.
Give yourself and your child grace. This is a huge adjustment, and it’s okay to take time to process it.
Create a Comforting Hospital Environment
Hospital stays can feel sterile and intimidating, so bringing a bit of home can help ease the stress:
-Pack familiar items like a favourite stuffed animal, blanket or pillow
-Bring books, movies, games or toys to keep your child entertained
-For teens, having their phone, tablet or journal can provide comfort and distraction
If your child is in intensive care of high-dependency unit due to DKA, focus on simply being there for them. Even if they are too unwell to interact much, your presence is reassuring.
Accept Support from Family and Friends
You don’t have to go through this alone. If loved ones offer to bring food, watch siblings or run errands- let them. If people don’t know how to help, let them know specific ways they can support you, such as:
-picking up groceries or supplies
-looking after other children
-simply being there to listen
Prepare for Hands-On Learning
During the hospital stay, you’ll practice giving insulin injections, checking blood sugar and counting carbohydrates under the guidance of the diabetes care team. If your child is old enough, involve them in age appropriate ways. For examply:
-Letting a young child prick which finger to test for blood sugar
-Encouraging a pre-teen to start learning how to count carbs and read food labels
-Giving a teenager increasing independence in managing their care
It may feel daunting at first, but with practice, these tasks will become second nature.
Start Thinking About Life After the Hospital
Before discharge, you’ll be given a plan for managing diabetes at home. It can be helpful to ask:
-What emergency numbers should I have saved?
-How do I handle sick days?
-What supplies should I always carry?
-How do I inform my child’s school or daycare?
Your diabetes team will likely provide follow-up appointments and ongoing education, so you won’t be left to figure it out alone.
Know that Coming to Terms with the Diagnosis Takes Time
Some parents accept the diagnosis quickly, while others go through a period of grief. Similarly, children and teens may react in different ways- some adapt well, while others struggle emotionally. It’s normal to have ups and downs. If your child is feeling anxious or overwhelmed, consider connecting with a counselor or a diabetes support group.
For younger children, keeping routines as normal as possible can help them feel safe. Teenagers may benefit from connecting with other young people who have T1D through online communities or local support groups.
Trust That You Will Get Through This
Right now, everything feels new and uncertain, but over time, managing diabetes will become part of your daily routine. You’ll learn how to handle blood sugar highs and lows, navigate birthday parties and sleepovers and support your child in living a full, healthy life.
You are not alone in this journey. There is an entire community of parents, caregivers and people living with Type 1 Diabetes who understand what you’re going through and can offer support.
Final Thoughts
A hospital stay after a T1D diagnosis is a challenging experience, but it’s also the beginning of a new chapter- one where your child can still thrive, grow and enjoy life to the fullest. Take it one day at a time, lean on your support system and remind yourself that you are doing an incredible job.